The words. Why did they have to exist? Without them, there wouldn’t be any of this.
Markus Zusak – The Book Thief
Burden of Words
B
“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak is a novel set in Nazi Germany, narrated by Death, who tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books and shares them with others during a time of great hardship and danger. The novel explores themes of the power of words, the impact of war on ordinary people, and the importance of compassion and humanity. As Liesel grows up in the shadow of World War II, she forms deep bonds with her foster family, friends, and even the Jewish man they hide in their basement. Through her experiences, Liesel learns about love, loss, and the enduring power of literature to provide solace and hope in the darkest of times.